Liska, as the local Jewish community calls it, is a magical hideaway in Hungary

Known as Liska to the local Jewish community, Olaszliszka is a charming destination in Hungary that welcomes tens of thousands of Orthodox Jewish travelers each year.

Liska Jewish Cemetery is a distinctive site for honoring traditions and unwavering faith. Here lies the sacred resting place of Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Friedman, affectionately called "Hershel Lisker" by the community, marking the birthplace of Hasidism in Europe. Despite his well-known poverty, the first Lisker Rebbe's life was a testament to his dedication to spiritual teachings, charitable deeds, and miraculous help. His name is associated with numerous miracles, including healing the ill and blessing many towards prosperity. The exemplary life of the rebbe had a substantial effect on the Orthodox Jewish communities of his era, shaping their current practices and beliefs. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the rebbe every year even today. Yahrazeit: Av. 14.

The influence of Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Friedman and the activities of the Liska Hasidic dynasty were instrumental in spreading Hasidism throughout Hungary and beyond. His disciple, the Kerestir Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner, also known as Reb Shaya'la of Kerestir, often signed his correspondence with the phrase: "Yeshaya, son of R. Moshe, who attended the righteous Rebbe of Liska."

Known far and wide, the Lisker Rebbe gained fame for his remarkable healing powers. Many international visitors migrated to Liska, coming in hopes of receiving healing from the Lisker Rebbe. The community firmly believed that the rabbi's blessings and prayers could effectively address and heal both physical and psychological suffering. His grave remained a place where pilgrims reported feeling his enduring presence and receiving spiritual solace, even posthumously.

The two caretakers of the Liska Jewish cemetery undertook a task that goes beyond maintaining the graves; they are also custodians of respect and remembrance for the past. Candles were placed at each grave, their flames flickering in reverence to the souls of those who once lived in this small village. The candle flames are viewed as a bridge connecting the past and the present, their light emerging from the depths of memory.

The flame of candles holds profound symbolic significance in the Jewish faith. The flames do not merely cast light, but also open a gate to all that is Eternal. 

As the Book says: "Man's soul is the Lord's lamp, which searches out all the innermost parts." Proverbs 20:27